MAKE SURE YOUR VOTE COUNTS: KNOW THE NEW VOTER ID LAW

R Rob M Ferguson

Before heading off to the polls Nov. 5, make sure you have an acceptable form of identification. Virginia voters are now required to show ID in order to cast a normal or absentee ballot. If you fail to present an acceptable form of ID you will be given the option to vote a provisional ballot.

If you vote a provisional ballot you have until noon on the Friday following the election to deliver a copy of the identification to the local electoral board, or your vote won’t count.

It’s your right to vote, make sure that it’s counted on Election Day.

The current law allows for the acceptance of all identification documents listed below:

• Virginia voter registration card
• Valid Virginia driver's license
• Military ID
• Any Federal, Virginia state or local government-issued ID
• Employer issued photo ID card
• Concealed handgun permit
• Valid student ID issued by any institution of higher education located in the Commonwealth of Virginia
• Current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck indicating the name and address of the voter
• Social Security card (*please note the Social Security card does not satisfy special federal ID requirements)

Visit the State Board of Elections website for more information on the voter ID law.

 It’s Your Right. Your Decision. Your Vote.

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